Millions of Americans approaching retirement are now facing a major Social Security milestone that could permanently affect the size of their monthly checks. Beginning in 2026, full retirement age officially reaches 67 for people born in 1960 or later, completing a decades-long increase that started back in the 1980s. Many workers still assume age 65 or 66 is when they qualify for full Social Security benefits, only to discover they could face steep reductions if they claim too early. Here’s a look at how claiming early could reduce your benefits.
